Normally, when I do these Grammar 101 posts, the rules are pretty well set in stone and there is no second thinking about it. For example, it is very clear whether you should use there, their, or they’re in each particular sentence. This black-and-white approach to writing doesn’t really apply to today’s scenario.
The infinitive form of a verb serves as the basis on which that verb can be conjugated to fit different subjects and tenses. In English, the infinitive usually takes on teh form of “to” something. For example, the infinitive version of “go” is “to go.” Similarly, other infinitives would be to run, to play, and to work. That sounds simple enough, but the picture gets muddled when you introduced split infinitives.
A split infinitive is when you insert a word, typically an adverb, in between the “to” and the verb in the infinitive form of a verb. One of the most famous examples of this is the Star Trek quote from above: “To boldly go where no man has gone before.” Is this grammatically acceptable?
Traditional View of Split Infinitives
If you were to adhere to the traditional or conventional school of thought, then you would be told that it is never acceptable to split infinitives. You can interrupt subject-verb pairs when you about it the right way, but it would never be correct to split the infinitive form of a verb.
So, how would you go about fixing the Star Trek quote? You have two options:
- Boldly to go where no man has gone before
- To go boldly where no man has gone before
Both are equally correct and both adhere to traditional conventions.
Evolving the Language
The English language is not a static entity. Twenty years ago, everyone would have given you a strange look if you said that you were going to “Google” something, but that’s a perfectly accepted statement today. Similarly, while I have an issue with I could care less, other people feel that its ironic meaning make it even more effective. Language changes and language evolves.
In like manner, our approach to split infinitives is changing as well. Traditionally, it is not acceptable to split an infinitive, but many people do it today without batting an eye. This is not a new phenomenon, of course, since that Star Trek quote came from decades ago. The evolution began long ago and the language continues to change with the times.
Using the Excuse of Style and Expression
I’ll be the first to admit that I have used the split infinitive structure on more than one occasion. It’s important to have good grammar, but as a freelance writer, I also recognize the importance of finding a unique voice. One of the bigger reasons why I choose to use the split infinitive from time to time is simply because it sounds better. It can also provide better flow and minimize ambiguity.
For example:
- To better facilitate discussion, let’s hold the meeting at my office.
- To facilitate better discussion, let’s hold the meeting at my office.
The meaning of the first sentence is clear. With the second sentence, it almost sounds like “better” is modifying “discussion” rather than “facilitate.” These are similar but different meanings; the split infinitive version is clearer for me.
What’s your take? Do split infinitives bother you?
This is why the English language is one of the hardest to learn and has some of the weirdest grammar conventions.
I prefer sounding good to being grammatically correct. To boldly go sound much better than either of the proper alternatives.
Clarity is much more important than grammar.
Split infinitives don’t really bother me either and normally grammatical errors bug me!
Yes, my blog title is a walking split infinitive! I did it on purpose, got some flak from a grammarian (my mother) and chose to keep it, even though she is disgusted with the split.
I was googling something to email her and I came across this blog and I like it. I will keep visiting.
Is it only infinitives that shouldn’t be split?
What about verbs in the present or past perfect, is it OK to split those?
For example, can i say, “tomatoes have frequently been called vegetables but they are actually fruits” or do i have to say, “tomatoes have been frequently called…”?
always wondered about that.
I’ve been taught that the “has/have” portion should not be separated from the main verb if possible. However, like the split infinitive, contemporary “rules” have been loosened significantly and many people will say that it’s simply a matter of taste and writing style now.
You said “…A split infinitive is when you insert a word…”
I had a teacher for several years who would rap us on the head whenever he heard “is…when”. A split infinitive is not a time. It is a construct. So, how would you properly restate that sentence?
Perhaps, you’d prefer:
A split infinitive is a language construct in which a word, typically an adverb, is inserted between “to” and the accompanying verb in the infinitive form.